Compact Washer and Dryer

There is only one reason why you would want a compact washer and dryer and that is because you have limited space for them. Obviously you will be doing more loads of laundry with the compact models. But if you are anything like me, you would rather do more loads of laundry than hit the Laundromat with the general public. Not only is this embarrassing but I’ve actually have had my clothes stolen.   

The first thing you need to do is measure the space in which your machines will be placed. You will need to know width, depth and height. Without these dimensions you are flying blind when it comes to shopping for a compact wash and dryer. Once you have these dimensions you may be pleasantly surprised to find out you could go with full size models even if it means going with stackable. Most of the models with be 23” to 24” wide, 32” to 34” high and 21” to 24” deep.

When it comes to your compact washer and dryer you have three choices. You can go with side by side, stackable, or the all in one. While the first two are pretty common the all in on compact washer dryer is something a little new and worth considering especially if you have very limited space. Instead of using heat it uses forced air and a condensing system to extract the water from the clothes. This system requires no vent and runs of a regular electricity, no 220V needed.

Our suggestion before making that decision is to really consider the space. For instance would it make more sense to split the space in half and put a stackable washer and dryer on one side and put shelving on the other half? The all in one may make the most sense if you are working with severely limited on space, have no venting available, or don’t have access to the voltage you need.

As far as the compact washing machine we would recommend a front loader. The main reasons being that it uses less energy and water and it also is quieter. Front loaders are also able to spin faster thus extracting more of the water from the clothing and thus requiring less electricity and work from the dryer.

As far as the compact dryer we would recommend getting one with a moisture sensor in it. This one little feature could save you 15% to 20% a year in the operation of your dryer. The sensor will turn off the dryer once the water particulates in the air are reduced to a certain amount.

Our final tip in your search for a compact washer and dryer is to go with Energy Star appliances. The main reason for this is money. Secondly it’s a great way to be green. Not only will an Energy Star washer and dryer save you money in your utility bill but they may also qualify for rebates from the government. Simple type in “Energy efficient appliance rebates” and you’ll be able to find these rebates from local, state and federal agencies.